RICHMOND COUNTY — A winter storm watch has been issued by the National Weather Service for central North Carolina, including Richmond County, as forecasters warn of developing weather conditions late this week.
The watch is expected to take effect Friday afternoon and continue through Sunday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service, an arctic blast will surge south across the northern Plains Thursday night, crossing the Midwest and reaching the Gulf Coast by Friday night. The system is expected to increase the chance for heavy snow across the Southern Appalachians, the Carolinas and the southern Mid-Atlantic from Friday into Sunday. Overnight temperatures are forecast to dip into the teens over the weekend.
“Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations between 5 and 8 inches possible,” reads the alert. “Locally significant snowfall totals will also be possible. Wind gusts of 25 to 35 mph.”
Forecasters warn the weather could lead to power outages and difficult travel conditions.
“The strong winds and weight of snow on tree limbs may down power lines and could cause sporadic power outages. Travel may become difficult or even impossible with widespread closures and disruptions to infrastructure possible,” the alert states.
Residents are encouraged to monitor forecasts and make preparations ahead of the anticipated weather conditions.